How to create a guest-friendly space

Whatever type of space you share on Airbnb, there are a few simple things you can do to make it inviting and comfortable as you get ready to welcome your first guests.

Considerate design elements can help your space feel more homey and inviting—and they don’t have to be complicated or expensive.

Here are a few tips for thoughtful design:

• Feature objects that show off your personality, like mementos from your travels
• Avoid leaving too much empty space, which can feel sterile and impersonal
• Choose a color palette and coordinate your artwork, textiles, and other details
• Consider adding a statement piece, like a bold light fixture or oversized easy chair
• Decorate with plants or flowers to add vibrancy

At minimum, you must provide toilet paper, soap, one towel and one pillow per guest, and linens for each guest bed.

Guests also tend to really appreciate:

• Extra towels, blankets, and pillows
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair dryer
• Staples like coffee, tea, and a kettle
• Basic cleaning supplies
  

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The bedroom is where your guests will sleep and store their belongings, so it’s important to make it comfortable. Consider what might help you feel at home in someone else’s space.

For example, you could:

• Make room for personal items by providing a dresser with empty drawers, a closet with some empty hangers, or a luggage rack
• Set up a bedside table with a lamp, so guests can keep their eyeglasses, phone, or book near the bed
• Provide a quality mattress, a few extra pillows, and soft blankets to support different comfort levels
• Add some plants, a mirror, a carafe and glass for water, an international power adapter, and a multi-phone charger to give the bedroom a welcoming feel

You can help your guests enjoy their stay by doing a few more things to complement your great hospitality.

1. Remove clutter. If you live in the space you’re sharing with guests, it’s important to consider the items you keep out and those you put away. Decluttering and storing your belongings in a tasteful way can help make your space feel more open and inviting.

2. Provide instructions. Help guests understand how to operate all appliances and features (like a gas fireplace, air conditioning, or the garage door) available for their use. You can include these instructions in your house manual.

3. Spend the night. Staying overnight in your space occasionally makes it easier to figure out what’s missing or needs improvement. Does the space seem warm and inviting? Do you have everything you need to feel comfortable and at home? Change things up until you can answer “yes” to both of these questions.

4. Keep things clean. Whether you clean your space yourself or hire a professional, it’s important to keep your home tidy and follow the five-step cleaning process before and after each guest. You can add a cleaning fee to cover the cost of your time or your cleaner’s. To help you prep your space for guests, we’ve created a checklist you can use.

Discover more in our guide to creating a guest-friendly space